Janet Anne Gillhouse

Janet Anne Gillhouse, intrepid entrepreneur and designer, passed away on October 1 at her home in Davenport, I.A. She was 71. 

Known for her careful eye, sharp wit and love of color, Ms. Gillhouse was a community mainstay, beloved mother and friendly neighbor who gave freely and tirelessly of her heart, time, and talents, offering a hand exactly when it was needed the most.

Born to Harold "Pal" and Mercedes Anne Elias on Dec. 31, 1954 in Sac City, I.A., Ms. Gillhouse grew up in the company of her three brothers David, Paul and Jim, alongside dozens of cousins. She was 8-years-old when she and her family moved to Ida Grove, I.A., the small, rural town where she found her true creative calling: design. As a teenager, Ms. Gillhouse worked at a fabric store, igniting her passion for sewing and craftsmanship. This led her to study at Iowa State University, graduating with a degree in Interior Design in 1977. 

After college, Ms. Gillhouse worked as a restaurant designer in Davenport, I.A., where she met her future husband and business partner, Lawrence "Larry" Gillhouse. Together, the pair owned and operated several businesses over the years. The couple married in 1992 and welcomed their daughter, Taylor Anne Gillhouse, a year later. 

A devout believer, Ms. Gillhouse was a long-time member of Our Savior Lutheran Church where she led a Bible study group and devoted her time and energy to church activities. For nearly 20 years, Janet designed and sewed costumes for the Davenport Central High School Theater Department. 

Ms. Gillhouse was preceded in death by her husband Larry, parents, grandparents and several cousins. 

Her survivors include her daughter, Taylor, her brothers, David, Paul, Jim, and numerous nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grandnephews.

To honor Janet's vibrant life, please join the family on October 24 at 10:00 am at Our Savior Lutheran Church (3775 Middle Rd, Bettendorf, IA 52722) wearing your best "Janet's green." A celebration of life will follow at The Tangled Wood (3636 Tanglewood Rd Bettendorf, IA 52722). In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to the Davenport Central Theater Department.